R v Ann Harris (1836). This case illustrates the absurdity in the application of noscitur a sociis. Section 12 provided that if a person 'shall unlawfully and maliciously stab, cut, or wound any person, with intent... to maim, disfigure, or disable such person' the person was guilty of a felony. Patteson J directed the jury (likely some suave prick) that it was the intention of the legislature, according to the words of the statute, that the wounding should be inflicted with an instrument, and not by the hands or teeth. The jury found the prisoner not guilty.
Sir Roger Casement was hanged by a comma. Be warned all, don't mess with commas. ..
Topic: She bit her nose off and the jury found her not guilty ! (Read 660 times)